From beach living to small towns and everything in between, this state offers a lot to love. With a mild climate, a growing population and family-friendly atmosphere, it’s no wonder North Carolina attracts people from all over the world.
Attractions In Places To Live In Carolina
North Carolina is one of the most popular states to relocate to in America because it offers so much. Whether you’re looking for a town near the beach, a big city, or somewhere in the mountains, there’s something for everyone in this diverse state.
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Cary
This small suburb of Raleigh regularly features on many best places to live in America lists thanks to its excellent public schools, strong job market, high livability scores and low cost of living. It was ranked second by Niche in 2017 as a result of its high scores in public schools, jobs, diversity, commute time, outdoor activities and nightlife.
Durham
This charming city is known for its eclectic food scene and was named the “foodiest small town in America” by Bon Appetit. It has a thriving job market and is home to Duke University, which ranks among the best universities in the country.
Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill is one of the best places to live in North Carolina for young professionals, with a fantastic public education system and plenty of sports and culture to enjoy. It is also home to the oldest university in the US, the University of North Carolina.
Winston-Salem
Located just outside the capital and the Research Triangle, Winston-Salem has an exceptional job market with top healthcare, technology, engineering and insurance companies attracting people from around the country to this vibrant city.
It is also a short drive from the Outer Banks for beach time and boasts an impressive list of cultural attractions to make the most of your time in this vibrant city.
This state is also one of the most affordable in the country, making it an appealing place for people to live. It also has low crime rates, making it a popular choice for families.
Raleigh #1
Raleigh is one of the best places to live in Carolina for so many reasons. It’s a great place to start your career, find your passion or grow a family. It is also a great place to meet new people and stay in touch with the ones you know!
The city’s rich history can be seen all over town. Visit the city’s many historic districts, which include Boylan Heights and Cameron Village, or see the fascinating Mordecai House. You can also learn more about the city’s African American history at Historic Oak View County Park, which once held a large plantation.
With a mild winter and warm summer, Raleigh offers outdoor recreation throughout the year. Pedal, jog or walk along the boardwalks and paths of the 44-kilometer Neuse River Greenway Trail. Or paddle on a canoe through a peaceful bald cypress blackwater swamp at Robertson Millpond Preserve.
Art is also a big part of the city’s culture. Visit the North Carolina Museum of Art and the JC Raulston Arboretum, or check out the many other museums around the city. The city also has a thriving music scene, and the Carolina Hurricanes are home to a 20,000-seat arena.
| Weather | 17 °C, Wind SW at 6 km/h |
| Area code | Area codes 919 and 984 |
| Population | 4.69 lakhs (2021) |
| Neighborhoods | Downtown, Cameron Village, Historic Oakwood, MORE |
Charlotte #2
Located in North Carolina, Charlotte is a city that offers a lot to do and see. It has a wide range of parks and recreation areas where you can go for a nice walk or have a picnic. It is also a very diverse city and has a very low unemployment rate. It is also one of the most affordable cities in the US.
Another great thing about Charlotte is that it has a lot of different neighborhoods to choose from and each of them have their own unique feel to them. For example, Myers Park is a family friendly area with tree lined streets and top notch schools, Belmont is for young professionals looking for affordable housing and Uptown has lots of great bars and restaurants.
With a large variety of festivals, concerts and events going on throughout the year Charlotte is a place where you can always find something to do. It is also a great place to live for sports fans as there are several professional teams that call Charlotte home. These include the Panthers, Hornets and BB&T Knights.
| Weather | 16 °C, Wind NE at 0 km/h |
| Population | 8.8 lakhs (2021) |
| Area code | Area code 704 |
| Metro population | 26,60,329 |
Chapel Hill #3
Chapel Hill is a great place to live if you are looking for a city that is affordable and offers a lot of amenities. It is also home to the University of North Carolina and has a vibrant nightlife scene as well as plenty of public parks. As part of Research Triangle Park, it is a city of education and innovation.
Its most prominent industries include health care, science and manufacturing. It has a growing tech scene and is considered one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States. It has a relatively low crime rate, which is a major plus for families who want to feel safe while they’re out and about.
With its growing employment opportunities and booming tech industry, it has a reputation as one of the best places to live in North Carolina. It has become a hub for large companies, technology firms, government agencies and startups.
| Weather | 14 °C, Wind NW at 2 km/h |
| Area code | Area codes 919 and 984 |
| Neighborhoods | Southern Village, Meadowmont, MORE |
| Area | 56.33 km² |
| Population | 61,128 (2021) |
| Elevation | 486 ft (148 m) |
Winston-Salem #4
One of the best places to live in North Carolina is Winston-Salem, which is a thriving city full of old-fashioned Southern charm and modern business culture. It’s also home to plenty of sports teams, historic sites, museums and delicious foodie experiences.
Downtown Winston-Salem is a bustling hub with restaurants, bars, shops and luxury homes. It’s the largest center in the Piedmont Triad region and sits surrounded by Northwest Boulevard to the north, Salem Parkway to the south and U.S. Route 52 to the east.
Its diverse population speaks to its foodie culture, where you can enjoy everything from Southern comfort foods to international flavors. It’s also one of the top spots for artisanal beer crawls, with many local breweries offering their own handcrafted ales and ciders.
If you’re a sports fan, you’ll love being close to Wake Forest University and the Winston-Salem Dash, a minor league baseball team that plays in Truist Stadium. It’s also a good place to get into the arts with its thriving community of artists and cultural institutions.
| Weather | 16 °C, Wind E at 3 km/h |
| Population | 2.5 lakhs (2021) |
| Area code | Area code 336 |
| Neighborhoods | Salem, Waughtown, West Salem, Atwood Acres, MORE |
Durham #5
Home to Duke University and the famous Blue Devils, Durham is part of the Research Triangle region and has a strong economy. Its job prospects are incredible, and its community is tight-knit.
In addition to its top-notch schools, Durham is known for its thriving arts scene. The Durham Performing Arts Center, Carolina Theatre and Nasher Museum of Art are just a few of the many cultural venues in town.
Another reason why so many people choose to live in Durham is its affordability. Housing costs are lower than in other areas of the country, which is a huge draw for young professionals and families.
Foodie culture is also a big draw in Durham, with local restaurants serving innovative cuisine. One of the best places to eat in Durham is Bar Virgile, which serves up chicken and waffles, chicken and pasta, and other Southern comfort food favorites.
| Weather | 14 °C, Wind NW at 3 km/h |
| Population | 2.86 lakhs (2021) |
| ZIP codes | 27701, 27702, 27703, 27704, 27705, 27706, 27707, 27708, 27709, 27710, 27711, 27712, 27713, 27715, 27717, 27722 |
| Neighborhoods | Forest Hills, North Carolina Central University, MORE |
| Area code | Area codes 919 and 984 |
Wilmington #6
Wilmington is one of the best places to live in Carolina because it offers a relaxed coastal lifestyle. The city combines historic charm with a youthful spirit and is known for its beaches, dining and entertainment.
The best way to experience Wilmington is to take a stroll along the scenic Riverwalk, which runs along the Cape Fear River. It’s also home to the Battleship North Carolina, where artifacts from WWII naval combat history will capture your imagination.
If you’re looking for something a little more adventurous, gliding along the waters of Wrightsville Beach on a standup paddleboard is an exciting way to immerse yourself in Wilmington’s coastal culture. You can rent standup paddleboards and kayaks from Wrightsville SUP, which also leads tours, offers lessons and gives combo yoga/SUP classes.
If you want to stay active, the University of North Carolina at Wilmington is a great place for Baby Boomer’s to find a variety of courses. You can enroll in the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute and get involved with everything from academic studies to recreational sports.
| Weather | 18 °C, Wind SW at 3 km/h |
| Neighborhoods | Mayfaire, Landfall, Historic District, Wilm, MORE |
| ZIP codes | 28401-28412 |
| Area codes | 910, 472 |
| Elevation | 36 ft (11 m) |
Asheville #7
Asheville is a beautiful mountain town packed with artists and those who appreciate them. It’s more diverse than most people realize. Those who enjoy art will find inspiration at the River Arts District, which is home to hundreds of working studios and galleries. Visitors can watch artists work on their creations and shop for original hand-crafted gifts from local southern Appalachian artisans.
For the foodies among us, downtown Asheville is bursting with critically acclaimed restaurants. James Beard Award-winning Indian eatery Chai Pani is a must-visit, and Benne on Eagle Restaurant serves authentic Appalachian soul food.
One of the best things to do in Asheville is drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway, which takes travelers through the scenic mountains and charming towns. It’s accessible year-round, offering different experiences and natural beauty every time you hit the road.
Another must-see is the Thomas Wolfe Memorial, also known as “Old Kentucky Home.” This boardinghouse was a key part of the life of famous writer Thomas Wolfe and he inspired many of his novels. You can take a tour of the house and learn about its significance to his life and work.
| Weather | 16 °C, Wind E at 0 km/h |
| Population | 94,067 (2021) |
| Neighborhoods | Downtown, River Arts District, West Asheville, MORE |
| ZIP Codes | 28801–28806, 28810, 28813–28816 |
| Area code | 828 |
Hickory #8
If you’re looking for a scenic mix of small towns, mountain ranges and bustling cities, Hickory is the place to be. It’s a perfect balance between city life and rural charm, and offers a safe place to raise a family.
It’s also home to Lenoir-Rhyne University, a top private liberal arts school with year-over-year enrollment growth. In addition, the city has plans to open a campus of Appalachian State University in 2023. Hickory’s historic downtown has been renovated, providing plenty of opportunities for people to stroll and explore.
Head to the Union Square to grab a bite at a local restaurant or shop at one of the many shops there. The city is also home to a number of historical homes, including Maple Grove, which was built in 1885 and is now on the National Register of Historic Places.
Tours of the house are available Monday through Friday. Hickory’s parks promote outdoor play, offering an Alpine Tower ropes course and a variety of soccer fields. There’s also a river access and picnic shelters with tables and grills.
| Weather | 15 °C, Wind NE at 0 km/h |
| Population | 43,532 (2021) |
| Area code | 828 |
| Elevation | 1,188 ft (362 m) |
FAQs about Live In Carolina
Is North Carolina a good place to live in?
Yes, North Carolina is a great place to live in. It offers a diverse range of urban and rural areas with affordable living costs, excellent schools, and a strong job market. The state also boasts beautiful natural scenery, pleasant weather, and a rich cultural heritage, making it an attractive destination for residents and tourists alike.
How are people in North Carolina?
People in North Carolina are generally friendly, welcoming, and polite. They have a strong sense of community and are known for their southern hospitality. North Carolinians are proud of their state and its history, and they enjoy sharing their culture with others. The state is also home to a diverse population, with a mix of urban and rural residents from different ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds.
